Willie Mullins’ irresistible form continued at Punchestown on Thursday.
With a number of seriously impressive horses in the Stayers’ Hurdle, many had predicted at least one of his charges to pip the rest of the field to the post.
In the end, it was Faugheen who claimed a win to restore the 10-year-old’s reputation.
A sub-par Champion Hurdle run at Cheltenham left the impressive veteran stranded in sixth position, and a good run was required in County Kildare.
Jockey David Mullins pulled ahead early in the race and was able to control the pace of proceedings for the Grade One’s entirety.
The other fancied-Mullins beast Penhill crossed the line in second place, as Shaneshill made it a 1-2-3 for the untouchable horse whisperer.
Beaming from ear-to-ear, Mullins had this to say following the race:
David said he loved it, absolutely loved it. He probably got a lot of things his own way there today and it may not happen again in the future, but he has a fair engine.
That victory was something else. It just shows the horse has the heart and I don’t know where he got that from. Maybe we’ll stay three miles or maybe we’ll go chasing with him – I don’t know.
Faugheen owner Rich Ricci was equally joyous:
I’m absolutely delighted. It’s been a tough old season for him and for us. It’s just nice to get a change of luck. He seemed to love it today.
I didn’t want him to disgrace himself and I was wondering what to do with him, maybe go novice chasing with him next season.
All of a sudden he’s done that today and it’s magic.
